New BMW 7 Series, Fully Electric i7 Teased Ahead of Debut Next Month
The current BMW 7 Series was introduced for the 2016 model year, making it the oldest sedan in its class right now. However, a replacement is coming soon.
The German automaker is preparing for a world debut in mid-April, and today we have a few teasers confirming that the seventh generation will sport a much bolder and more striking look. More importantly, a fully electric variant called i7 will sit at the top of the lineup.
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As you can see, the gigantic front grille now found on select BMW models is popping up again, featuring an illuminated surround and flanked by new, slimmer headlights. It’s very reminiscent of the look on the iX electric crossover. Of course, there will inevitably be clear visual distinctions between gas-powered models and the zero-emission i7.
The interior will put on a show—literally—thanks to the BMW Theatre Screen, an ultra-wide 31-inch screen with a 32:9 panoramic display format and 8K streaming resolution which moves out of the roof liner and transforms the rear seats into a private cinema lounge.
Other highlights include a curved instrument panel and infotainment display for the driver, plus the BMW Interaction Bar, which is a “new type of light and function strip” on the dashboard and doors “providing a visual and haptic quality,” the company explains.
As for specifications, we’ll have to wait some more. BMW says the i7 will be the most powerful expression of the new 7 Series and hints at a range of 491 kilometres based on U.S. EPA estimates, which would beat the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT, but not the Tesla Model S or Mercedes-Benz EQS. Also, the 6.0-litre V12 engine, currently housed in the 600-horsepower M760Li xDrive, will not return.
The Car Guide will share all the details about the new BMW 7 Series and i7 as well as a full gallery of pictures following the world premiere. Watch this space in about a month.